African leaders have agreed on a coordinated strategy to transform the continent’s pastoral livestock sector into a globally competitive industry by removing trade barriers, attracting private investment and creating a unified market under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The commitment was announced during the ministerial session of the inaugural African Pastoral Markets Forum, where ministers from Ethiopia, Nigeria, Kenya, Uganda and Somalia, together with the African Union Commission, endorsed measures to strengthen regional livestock trade and boost value addition. The African Livestock Trade initiative aims to help the continent maximise the value of its vast livestock resources.
Speaking at the forum, Moses Vilakati, the African Union Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment, said Africa possesses nearly one-third of the world’s livestock but continues to export live animals while importing processed meat and dairy products. He called for greater investment in livestock corridors, animal health systems, water infrastructure, market facilities and harmonised cross-border trade rules.
Nigeria’s Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, said Africa must move from subsistence pastoralism to commercially driven livestock businesses capable of attracting investment and competing internationally. He noted that Nigeria is investing in ranch development, modern livestock markets, veterinary services and animal identification systems to strengthen the sector.
Officials from Kenya, Uganda, Somalia and Namibia also highlighted reforms aimed at improving livestock quality, disease surveillance, digital traceability, meat inspection and value-added industries such as meat, dairy and leather production. They stressed that stronger regional cooperation would support food security, expand exports and improve competitiveness.
The forum concluded with commitments to modernise livestock markets, improve access to finance, strengthen disease control and remove non-tariff barriers. Leaders believe the African Livestock Trade agenda will encourage investment, expand intra-African commerce and position the continent as a stronger player in global livestock markets. They also see the African Livestock Trade strategy as a key step towards sustainable economic growth and regional integration.
How can African countries work together to unlock the full economic potential of the continent’s livestock industry?
